Product Review: Living Meridian acupuncture charts
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I have had the distinct pleasure of working with the Living Meridian acupuncture charts these last weeks while studying for finals. I wanted to spend some quality time working with them before I wrote a review so I could get a full appreciation for their strengths and weaknesses. My one line impression is that these are, bar none, the highest quality acupuncture charts available on the market. In fact, I encourage you to buy one right now. No joke!
One of the creators of these impeccable tools contacted me several months ago via my blog to let me know about the painstaking process he and his colleagues went through to create charts that are accurate, beautiful and easy to use. The team spent many hours palpating points, debating about their locations, looking for the perfect marking pens and generally ensuring themselves and their customers a product that meets their very high standards of accuracy. They worked for thousands of hours cross referencing their locations with the locations noted by all the major acupuncture book writers. They did find some disparities in the descriptions of point locations. Further, they found that their charts conflicted in several ways with the other commercially available charts. The result of their hard work is that they have created charts that show with great accuracy the most typical locations of points as modeled by a real human being, not simply approximated on a two dimensional drawing of a human being.
Think about this! There’s a lot of shifting of tissue that happens when a person stands up. You can see how this might impact the way that the points appear on the final product. You can see an example of the difference by comparing these two photos that Fifth Element provided. For instance, look at the top of the columns and the relationships of the points near the bottom of the columns. The fact that they figured this out and then adjusted their charts accordingly to be maximally useful really speaks highly of Fifth Element’s dedication to producing something that reflects the real world. I think using these charts also helps for us to think carefully about the way that the position and condition of the body should shift our thinking when we are locating points on our patients.
Robust set of features!
Aside from this dedication to accuracy, there are many other fantastic features of the charts. Perhaps most important of these – they are beautiful. The colors are vivid, the surface is glossy and of high quality. I have no problem having these on my wall, I want everyone to see them! They are also durable. Shipped from Australia in a sturdy cardboard tube for a minimal cost, they suffered no wear and tear. I’ve been using them for almost a month, moving them about, rolling and unrolling, letting my daughter mess with them and they look just like they did when I pulled them out of their packaging.
The points are numbered clearly and labeled according to their channel by using distinct colors for each. There is a key included, but the colors are intuitive for anyone with a rudimentary knowledge of Chinese medicine theory. They have also included special labelling to indicate Yin vs Yang channels, Yuan-source, Xi-cleft, Luo-connecting and all the Shu-Transport points. While it does take a few minutes to get used to their method of labeling, once you get used to it, quickly spotting the relevant piece of information to jog your memory is simple. The charts are shipped in pairs, one showing the Yin side of the body (front and right side) and one showing the Yang side (back and left side). Despite not having a top view, the locations of the head points are clear enough.
The company produces TCM charts, Zen Shiatsu charts and a chart with all of the channel pathways combined. I tested this latter set, but because my knowledge of the Zen Shiatsu system is limited, I cannot attest to the usefulness of it in terms of locations. I can say that this combined chart shares all of the same excellent features as the TCM only set.
The usefulness of the charts in studying acu-points
While finding the palpable landmarks and feeling the Qi of the point are the keys to accurate location – visual accuracy counts, especially when you are just beginning to learn. There’s really something special about seeing the points marked on a human body. As I talked about in my article about learning the acupuncture points, not much substitutes for seeing the points as they lay on a real human body. These charts are a perfect companion to that process, as you can see a highly accurate photograph of the points marked out and compare it to how the channels you’ve marked on your partner appear. The charts could also be quite useful if you’re not yet in the process of learning the points and channels in a formal way. You can simply have them up on a wall and pick a channel a day to study informally. You could simply follow the course of the channel on your own body based on how it looks on the chart – this process will be so much easier on these charts because of the closeness of fit between the image and the contours of your own body.
As someone who has already learned the points and channels but needs to refresh every day, I have found these charts to be an invaluable resource. When I need a break from my book study, I simply look up to my charts (they hang above my study table) and start following a channel point by point. While you could use other charts to do this, again the accuracy and quality of the Fifth Element charts make me rest easily knowing that the locations are correct.
Minor constructive criticism
First, some of the marking of the Shu transport points is a little difficult to differentiate at first, especially when the designated colors are very close to the channel colors. Perhaps stronger imagery or a different color scheme could help this. Second, I would have appreciated the inclusion of Chinese characters for the point names as well as other relevant information. This might have cluttered the chart, but a small font would have been alright. I have to say that, honestly, I don’t have much more in the way of criticism to offer! I talked to several others, including professors, to ask their opinion on the charts and everyone agreed that they are some of the best they have seen.
Edit (12/1/2007): In discussion with Fifth Element, I’ve learned that they chose to label the points as they did because it follows the naming system being devised by WHO and are willing to create charts with Chinese characters if there is demand. If you are interested in seeing something like this, do feel free to visit their website and provide them with this feedback.
In summary
I can’t think of a single reason that you shouldn’t buy these charts. If you think you don’t need a chart, but have never worked with one – I encourage you to give it a try. The price is right, even with shipping from Australia and if nothing else it will make a good decoration for some part of your clinic! If you’ve used these charts or buy them as a result of this review, please leave a comment to let us know about your experience.
I should note that this review pertains to the Wall Charts that Fifth Element offers, but they also have life-sized banners that adhere to the same quality standards. They offer quantity discounts and can ship large quantities in flat-packs for institutional orders.
Additionally, if you would like to be sure you catch all of my Chinese medicine related product reviews, be sure to subscribe to this blog via RSS feed or via email.
Eric
Contemporary discipleship in Chinese medicine
One of the things I see as inherent in a Classical approach to Chinese medicine is the recovery of a sense of discipleship. The passing of knowledge from Master to Student has always been a part of the medicine, as far as I can tell. This is not a foreign concept in general, the use of apprenticeships and master-student relationship are present in most arts and sciences through time. But it is a pretty absent feature of contemporary American life, in my experience. Chinese medicine education – for the most part – is done in the same ineffective way that most education is done. Lecturers lecture. Students listen, or at least try to listen. Lab time is neglected. Standardized tests are seen as a viable way to measure performance. People graduate who really don’t know what they’re doing or why.
Through every step of my education, I have sought real mentors. People with diverse life experience who can help me navigate not just the material, but life. The first is, perhaps, primary – but if the second isn’t present in some way I don’t really feel as though I am learning anything of value. I have been fairly successful finding people who I resonate with who have excellent information to share, a love for teaching and also many words of wisdom in life to pass along.
When I learned that the Classical Chinese Medicine program at NCNM had as an integral feature a restoration of true mentorship, I was very excited. I have to say that while there have been efforts to materialize this ideal, it has been no easier for me to find mentorship in this program than it has been anywhere else. I think the consciousness of the importance of mentor-mentee relationships is there, and various structures exist to help manifest those relationships. But, as everything, it’s a work in progress.
What does discipleship mean in contemporary society? Is it truly an integral feature of learning Chinese medicine? These are questions I consider heavily many times each day.
Recently I’ve been in conversation with a respected friend and colleague about this issue. We’ve gone back and forth about what constitutes discipleship and, perhaps most importantly, whether the exchange of money should be involved between mentor and mentee. What is gained or lost in this situation? One argument I have made is that in the past, frequently trials were required from the mentee – involving considerable investments of time. Further, in the end we have to admit that if the mentor simply did not like the mentee, they would not come into relationship. At least not frequently. Many of us these days have money but not time. Or, rather, we trade most of our time for money. Does this make money a good substitute for time in this situation? It is sometimes a trial to come up with money. :) Also, does this somehow democratize the mentor-mentee relationship? Is this a good thing or a bad thing?
I’d be really interested to hear folks’ thoughts on this and related issues. Please add your voice in the comments. Also, if you would like to have more articles about topics like this brought to you directly be sure to subscribe to this blog via RSS feed or via email.
Eric
Deepest Health host of Carnival of Healing #114: Asian perspectives
Hey everyone,
I’m happy to announce that I will be the host for the December 1st, 2007 Carnival of Healing. I last hosted the Carnival on September 22, and it was a great success. Many interesting posts were submitted and I had plenty of quality material to choose from. Because of the theme of my blog, I thought it would be interesting to have a focus on Asian influenced methods of healing and wellness for this Carnival. That’s all the guidance I’m going to give – if you think you have something that fits the bill, submit it!
If you have an article you would like me to consider for inclusion, please email a link to your article to deepesthealth@gmail.com.
Thanks and please continue to enjoy your weekend,
Eric
A Five Element Path to maintaining sanity amid chaos, Part II
Yesterday in the first part of this discussion of maintaining sanity, I discussed the roles of Wood, Fire and Water in creation and resolution of the problems that often plague many of us who take in, and take on – way too much. I’d like to talk now about how I’ve used the symbolism of Metal and Earth – the densest of our elemental phases – to help me see a way out of the chaotic world I sometimes live within.
Earth has taught me immensely important lessons in my quest to overcome overwhelm. Though it probably isn’t fair to lay the whole blame for this situation on Wood energetics, it is convenient in terms of looking at the Wood-Earth relationship. When we push too much, when we try to do everything and be everyone, usually the very first thing to suffer is our self-care. Right behind it is our home life. :) How many of us, when we have massive deadlines piling up on us and the pressure at work or school seems almost to intense to bear, start treating our bodies terribly and snapping at our loved ones? In my humble opinion, this is a perfect example of Wood overacting on Earth manifesting in human life. So what to do?
Earth is the province of the Spleen and Stomach, the home of nourishment and care. Importantly, this is where the transformation and transportation of what we take in takes place. In some real way, we cannot properly assimilate all of the great information we’re trying to absorb without paying close attention to our Earth-bound needs. Careful attention to nutrition, plenty of rest and relaxation and special attention to the creation of sanctuary for ourselves is essential to making great use of what we are privileged to be learning. It is the soil from which our life grows. This goes for the human element of Earth, too – our friends and family. We need to be especially careful to reach out to those who love us and those whom we love. We need to understand their essential role in our development and our responsibility to be what they need us to be. We should guard against self indulgence, of course, always remembering the vital role that the Emperor plays in reminding us of our purpose – but we MUST care for ourselves, or nothing will come of our valiant efforts.
Finally, Metal. Metal has taught me the hardest lessons, and the control cycle of the five elemental phases is a perfect analogy to use in this situation. Metal has the job of controlling the overgrowth of Wood. Where Fire gives the Wood something to reach towards, Earth gives ample nourishing space within which Wood can grow and Water ensures that everything stays supple and moving – Metal has the vital job of cutting off something gone wildly out of control. It is the pruning shear principle in our life and it *must not* be neglected if the Emperor is to maintain her appropriate place as undisputed ruler of our lives.
Sometimes you just have to say no. Even worse, sometimes you have to back out of something you erroneously said yes to at some point in the past. Metal, empowered by the animating principle of Fire and guided by the deeply connected force of water, knows when to say when. This is the hardest part to act out because there are no short cuts, and no way to make the impact less difficult. Some of us can get a little panicky when we know we are going to have to say no to something or someone. This is the edgy force of Wood wanting to grow ever more! We must have the strength to wield metal for the sake of our whole being and just cut ourselves off from overcommitment and information overload. I promise you, you will not die if you fail to read the newspaper today. You will not become a pariah if you say no to the latest committee assignment offered to you at work. You will not fail utterly in your quest to become a great practitioner if you say no to that seminar or elective class.
If you simply let the Emperor be the Emperor, pay close attention to the guiding method of Water, nourish your whole being deeply with Earth and learn when to say when with the cutting force of Metal you will flourish madly in this world and do it with your sanity intact.
What do you think? Let us know in the comments. If you’re interested in getting regular updates of content like this, be sure to subscribe to this blog via RSS feed or via email.
Eric
A Five Element Path to maintaining sanity amid chaos
This school term has flown by so fast, I haven’t known exactly what to do with it! It’s the nature of this education that you’re always taking in and trying to assimilate so much, while still retaining what you’ve already learned and really you feel like you’re not doing any of those things particularly well. Personally, I try to take some solace in the fact that many many have gone before me and managed – so I will as well. Still, trying to keep everything together at school while managing home/family life, taking time for my personal and spiritual development and keeping up with all of my other commitments, like this website, has been quite a struggle.
Last night, my partner and I had a great conversation about life in general and the difficulties therein. What we really focused on in our talk was how important it is, within a life partnership as well as any other kind of intense relationship, to hold our own center and have some way to navigate the immense amount of information that comes our way – as well as the overwhelming number of decisions we must make in any given situation. My sense is that in a relationship and in life in general, there will always be more information coming in than you can ever hope to process. With the Internet and other improvements in information technology, that situation is just becoming more overloaded. Many authors have discussed “information overload” and given various strategies to deal with it. What’s funny is that reading some of that information, in my experience, has actually added to the problem and not solved it. :D
I thought I would offer you some of what I gleaned from that conversation, put in five element terminology, to help those students and harried young professionals in the audience to maybe get a handle on the wild ride of life. Please feel free to offer any additional wisdom if you have it.
1. Starting with Wood, as all good things should, we find the crux of the problem. The imperative of Wood is to grow, grow , grow – to take in all the nutrients that come our way, to process them as quickly and efficiently as possible, and to produce something in return — growth! It’s the impetus behind all basic life processes, to take in and to use, to reach higher and higher. This principle is behind that old saying, “I’ll rest when I’m dead.” It’s the constant pushing up against the world, the unceasing urge to take in and then create, to briefly nourish and then reach. Wood is the element of the Liver, the General, who would – if imbalanced – sacrifice all in the name of victory! Rest is an afterthought – the essence is simply to keep going. This wood energy is a beautiful thing, and nothing would get done without it, but it must not forget itself and overrun its place — which it most certainly has in my life at various times. I take on too many projects, I open myself to too many inputs, I read everything I can, I ask the universe for too many teachers and I expect myself to take it all in and process it NOW.
2. Moving to Fire we have one hint of a possible solution. Fire is the realm of the Emperor, the Heart, and the Heart holds the mandate for the entire human being. Fire is the most ethereal of the phases and in that way, the closest to Heaven. Huge problems occur when we don’t let the Emperor be the Emperor. The Emperor is responsible for holding the space for our purpose in life, of animating our actions in that direction. The Emperor beats out the time of the body, giving the subtle commands to jump when and how high. In my case, and I think in the cases of many, the Wood General in his ability to take in so much and desire to move forward so strongly has usurped the position of the Emperor. But that charge ahead leaves me overexposed and vulnerable to an attack from the flanks, or just a loss of energy as the food line is cut and resources become scarce.
So – the first thing first? Let the Emperor be the Emperor. Find your purpose – which means to remember it. You already know what that purpose is, just sit and be quiet long enough to let yourself recall. What is a purpose? There’s probably one for your life – for me it has a few facets. But there’s also purposes for the time that you’re in – for those of us that are students – our very first purpose is to LEARN exactly what we are being asked to learn, no more and no less. My purpose at this time, aside from my grand plans and aspirations, is to learn this medicine as well as I possibly can in this time that has been graciously given me. What is your grander purpose or vision? Is it to get close to enlightenment? To work towards the elimination of world hunger? To have a lot of fun? I think everyone has one. Figure out yours. And then imbue it into the fire, the Heart, the Emperor and let it rule with that mandate.
What does it mean to rule with that mandate? Well, ultimately, that’s where the communication between Water and Fire come in and it breaks with the normal cycle of the five elements, but it’s important!
3. Using the power of Water to help the Emperor rule. I’ve talked about this in various ways before, but I think this is a powerful way to think of it. Even with a mandate, we may find ourselves crippled in the face of so much information and so many decisions. We need a way to connect our innermost purpose with real-time situations that we have to deal with every day. For me, this is the power of Water. Water speaks to our connection with our accumulated wisdom, our spiritual selves, the mysteries of our inner universe. However you want to look at it – one of the greatest essences of Water is the ability to contain the wild and ethereal intensity of Fire in the cool, constructed force of tangible reality, Yin. Maybe that’s a little too woo-woo for some of you, but I’m simply saying that in human lives, Water can help us to bring our highest principles into concrete action in the world.
The “how” behind this has many faces depending on your personal preference. It could be prayer, it could be throwing the Yijing, it could be long sessions of Qigong followed by journaling, it could be a walk and talk with your best friend, it could be a hike in the Cascade mountains… whatever you do to connect with a deeper part of yourself, establish that as your primary method. Then, when confronted with overload or a serious decision, indulge in this method until clarity comes. Most importantly – trust it immediately. I tend to use the Yijing for this – but long walks followed by meditation work very well, too. By employing some tried and true method of tapping into your subconscious processes you will find a way to allow the mandate of the Emperor to come into your every day life. I know this needs a little work, but I hope my essential point is coming across.
4. Earth and Metal both have powerful parts to play, but I will reveal those in another entry to save your eyes a little pain. :)
Have something to add? Share your voice in the comments. If you’re interested in learning more about five element theory or want to keep up with the conversation, be sure to subscribe to this blog via RSS feed or via email.
Eric
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Updates from my personal blog (Ericgrey.com)- Some lyrics… May 12, 2009
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